Hong Kong lawmakers grill security chief over protest violence

After massive protests over an extradition bill, members of Hong Kong's legislature met for the first time in a week, where many from the opposition slammed the pro-Beijing administration's handling of the crisis.

The city that has been shaken by a series of massive demonstrations against a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, has been criticised along with its police force for the use of excessive force to disperse protesters.

Members of the opposition wore black with white ribbons pinned to their lapels. They also had white chrysanthemums, a symbol of mourning placed on their desks.

Opposition lawmakers grilled Hong Kong's head of security John Lee over allegations of police brutality during the sporadic clashes with demonstrators this month. "We are sad that some people were hurt while expressing their views," Lee said, as he repeated the government's apology for the turmoil caused by the bill.

The opposition were due to introduce a non-binding motion of no-confidence against pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam. But, it was not expected to pass as the body was dominated by her camp. Lam had also apologised on Tuesday and indicated the extradition law is unlikely to be revived. She however did not announce a formal withdrawal and vowed to continue as the city's leader.

On June 9, Lam had suspended the extradition bill. But this failed to quell public anger and protesters staged an even larger rally a week later seeking the bill to be withdrawn and that Lam resigns.

The city's formidable business community was also spooked by the law, which they feared would damage Hong Kong's reputation as a safe business hub.  

Source